Tragedy in Kwale as Tourist Plane Crashes, Twelve Feared Dead

By Robai Ludenyi,

A tragic plane crash has claimed several lives in Kwale County after a light aircraft carrying twelve people went down in the Tsimba Matuga area on Tuesday morning. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Director General, Mr. Emile Arao, confirmed that the plane, registered as 5Y CCA, was flying from Diani to Kichwa Tembo in the Maasai Mara when it crashed shortly after takeoff.

The aircraft was reportedly carrying tourists heading for a safari trip, but their journey ended in tragedy when the plane burst into flames upon impact. The wreckage was completely destroyed, and early reports suggest that all passengers may have lost their lives, though officials are yet to give the exact number of victims.

Security officers, police, and emergency teams rushed to the scene soon after news of the crash broke. They found the wreckage still burning, with thick smoke rising above the trees. Residents from nearby villages said they heard a loud explosion followed by a huge fire. Rescue operations began immediately, but officials say heavy rain, mud, and poor visibility have made it hard for teams to reach parts of the crash site. Despite the challenges, officers and rescue workers are doing their best to recover remains and gather evidence. The area has been sealed off to allow investigators to work safely.

Mr. Arao said an investigation is already underway to find out what caused the crash. Aviation experts will be studying the wreckage and weather patterns to determine whether the accident was caused by a technical fault, pilot error, or bad weather.

Local leaders and government officials have also arrived at the site to oversee rescue efforts and comfort families who fear their loved ones may have been on board. Kwale County Commissioner and senior police officers have assured the public that every effort is being made to recover all victims and support affected families.

By midday, smoke was still visible from the crash site as emergency teams continued their search through the ashes. The government is expected to release a full statement once all details are confirmed. The tragedy has left the nation in deep sorrow, with many Kenyans sending condolences and prayers to the families of those who were on the ill-fated flight.

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The author is Robai Ludenyi. Journalist and Media Innovator